O'Brien, R-Mont Vernon, won a recount Wednesday for the seat. He said very few votes changed as a result of the recount.

O'Brien was elected speaker two years ago, but Democrats regained control of the House last week and the votes to name a speaker from their party when the Legislature organizes Dec. 5.

Republicans nominate their choice for speaker in a private caucus Thursday. Democrats pick their nominee Saturday. If Democrats stick together, their choice will be named speaker Dec. 5 and the GOP choice will be minority leader.